Summertime – time for lazy afternoons, soaking up sunshine, swimming and enjoying a baseball game. (Oh yes, and freedom from school and homework). Isn’t summer all about letting go of the routine and just going with the flow? Well, maybe ideally. But the reality is that after a few weeks, children may become bored while parents become stressed. One of the best ways to combat the stress of summer is to make it routine.

And keep in mind that school will be starting back up in only a few weeks. You’ll be doing yourself and your kids a favor if you are already following a routine before school starts up again. It will definitely help you get in the back-to-school swing much faster.

Consider these three simple tips:

1. Maintain morning and bedtime routines. While you might modify wake-up times and bedtimes, stick to the same basic routine that you follow during the school year.

2. Keep your child involved in some activities. It is great to have downtime, but staying engaged is important too. Remember to include activities that will help a child retain academic progress. To keep them on board, include fun learning activities like programs at Bricks 4 Kidz®. For a teen, a part-time job can be a lifesaver for both the teen and the parent.

3. Make sure they are learning. Include study time in your daily schedule. Many bookstores have age and grade appropriate workbooks for kids to help them retain knowledge over the summer. Designate daily reading times (even if it is part of your bedtime routine). Have a child who loves to be online? Check out these summer learning apps.